Joining together to beat chill

Simon Parslow and Chris Heaton-Harris

A social enterprise run by a Daventry businessman has teamed up with Northamptonshire County Council to help keep the elderly warm.

Businesses can help sponsor a state-of-the-art digital thermometer, called Tom, to be delivered to 1,000 people’s homes as part of the wider ‘Wrapped Up’ campaign, backed by Age UK and Northamptonshire County Council.

The gadget’s easy to read screen alerts the user when the temperature has dropped to harmful levels, reminding pensioners to turn up the heating or put on an extra layer of clothing.

Between 16C and 18C it will flash every six seconds with the word ‘COOL’ displayed. If the temperature drops below 16C, which can cause serious risk to health, Tom will flash blue every three seconds and display the word ‘COLD’.

Simon Parslow, director of Daventry-based Target Holdings which produces Tom, said: “With the cold snap approaching, all of us need to take greater responsibility for looking out for our loved ones, ensuring their homes are warm and they are protected against the winter chill.

“We have teamed up with the ‘Wrapped Up’ campaign to offer our digital thermometers as part of the package people receive. Businesses are already coming on board to be sponsors, helping protect the most vulnerable people in our community this winter.

Mr Parslow added: “We have been delighted with the tremendous support we have received so far, with a number of businesses already signing up. It’s a perfect way for firms to give something back to local people and make a real difference this winter.”

For more information about getting involved with the ‘Wrapped Up’ campaign call Simon Parslow on 01327 301950 or visit www.howstom.co.uk/corporate